Catawba Valley Pottery Festival
March 21, 2024
The Graceful Geese Mercantile
April 17, 2024
The Flowering Bridge of Lake Lure
(As shared in the Spooky Issue of Foothills Digest)
Like many communities, the people of Lake Lure have a knack for turning tragedy into beauty. According to local lore, in the 1960s, a young woman named Clementine was water-skiing on the lake when she tragically lost her balance and was thrown against the side of a beautiful old bridge. She lost her life, and legend has it that her spirit has lingered there ever since.
For many years, locals referred to the structure as "Clementine's Bridge." The bridge was originally built in 1925, coinciding with the founding of the town and just before the lake was flooded.
In 2010, a new bridge was constructed to span Lake Lure, and ownership of the old bridge was transferred to the town. While many other communities might have considered demolishing it, Lake Lure recognized the architectural beauty and historical significance of the bridge.
They set out to breathe new life into the stunning, three-arch, 155-foot structure.
By 2013, a garden had been completed. A winding pathway, teeming with a variety of plants, has transformed the bridge into a paradise. Home to more than 2,000 species of plants—all tended by volunteers—the garden thrives, particularly because Lake Lure is situated in the isothermal belt, which offers a more temperate climate than most of western North Carolina.
The bridge affords a view of Chimney Rock and is beautifully lit both day and night, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the view.
Additionally, the Flowering Bridge has a special feature for pet owners. Many of our readers may be familiar with the poem "The Rainbow Bridge," which addresses the loss of a pet. The poem speaks of a joyous reunion, declaring, "When you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again."
Inspired by this sentiment, artist Amy Wald created a Rainbow Bridge on the Flowering Bridge following the loss of her own cherished pet. Grieving pet owners are invited to attach their pet's collars to this Rainbow Bridge. Hundreds have done so in the year since it was introduced, making it a deeply moving memorial that celebrates the love people have for their pets.
The Flowering Bridge is truly something special, a testament to the strong sense of community that thrives in Lake Lure.
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